NBA Draft: 5 rookies who will have the greatest impact
By Seth Partnow
NBA Summer League is a rapidly fading memory. Still, it was our first look at the majority of players who will make their NBA debuts this season. Though Summer League statistics can be misleading, seeing how prospects match up with something resembling NBA size and speed can provide a preview into who is most ready to contribute right away. Here are five NBA Draft prospects likely to make a splash on the court this season.
Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins is a unique case. As good as he might be right away, his biggest potential impact is away from the ball. His absurd athleticism and developing jump shot make him an intriguing complimentary player for a team that already has plenty of shot creation and offensive skill in LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. Further, his most immediate contributions on such a team would likely be in “hustle” areas like rebounding and defense as his offensive skills develop and become more refined.
Still, despite this enormous potential, an established all-star like Kevin Love is nearly guaranteed to out-produce Wiggins for the remaining seasons of LeBron’s prime. After signing his rookie contract with Cleveland on July 24, Wiggins can’t be traded until late August, leaving us with another few weeks of speculation over his address for the coming season.